2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring Review

2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring

Touring meets passion

The new 1200 S Touring expresses the Multistrada philosophy to perfection. Thanks to the new Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS), the S Touring actively responds to the challenges thrown up by the terrain.

Stylish panniers, heated grips and a practical centre stand make it a bike that was born to travel

The 2013 Ducati Multistrada family presents an innovative and technically advanced evolution of an already award-winning range, now updated with restyled aesthetics, a brand new Granturismo model and the new Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) system that provides confidence-inspiring, intelligent electronics to ensure this multi-tasking motorcycle is instantly ready for every road.

The new range, full of owner-inspired improvements, signals the next stage of the Multistrada adventure with a long list of fascinating and high-tech features that continue the model’s reputation for industrychanging innovation. They include the second generation Testastretta 11° DS engine, the very latest Bosch ABS 9ME braking system with full Riding Mode integration, a new headlight design with LED low-beam illumination and subtle aesthetic updates to the front fairing.

Combining ground-breaking design and unprecedented technology, the Multistrada’s Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro Riding Modes enable a truly enjoyable and customisable riding experience separated by just one click. The four-bikes-in-one concept makes instant adjustment to power and torque delivery in addition to electronic adjustment of suspension settings, traction control, and now ABS and Ducati Skyhook Suspension, instantly transforming the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring to suit its rider and environment with even more precision.

Hailed as a true ‘game-changing’ motorcycle, the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring has attracted all types of riders by removing the borders between motorcycle categories. With the latest 150hp Testastretta 11° DS engine, a class-leading dry weight of just 194kg ((428lb) Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring S Pikes Peak) and the application of advanced ergonomics, the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring is not only powerful and playful, but also a comfortable and versatile adventure on two wheels. The eight-level DTC and new three-level ABS introduce the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP) concept to the Multistrada family, further underlining Ducati’s focus on performance safety.

The 2013 range includes the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring with the associated Riding Mode technologies of Ride-by-Wire (R-b-W) and Ducati Traction Control (DTC) in addition to the very latest in ABS, while the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring S Touring is now equipped with Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS), R-b-W, DTC and ABS with additional side luggage, heated grips and centre stand. The new touring flagship of the range for 2013 is the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring S Granturismo with increased side luggage capacity, top case, additional LED illumination, enhanced wind protection and long-distance tyres, while the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring S Pikes Peak celebrates the sporting side of the model’s character with a replica of the famous 2012 mountain race bike in its stunning new race-winning livery.

The new Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring transforms every road into an unending thrill-fest. Skyhook suspension, which ensures the best set-up every inch of the way, and the stunningly smooth Testastretta 11° DS engine merge with unmistakeable Ducati appeal to provide the ride of your life. And for those eager for even more boundless adventure there’s the new Granturismo model, the bike ready to take on the world.

4 personalities, 1 bike

Four bikes in one, ensuring the motorcycle adapts perfectly to both the terrain and your riding style. The standard version of the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring combines the outstanding performance of the new Testastretta 11° DS engine with sophisticated Ducati Safety Pack technology and unmistakeable Ducati instinct.

The Multistrada 1200 and 1200 S Touring are available in red or the stunning new matte chrome, which contrasts elegantly against the racing grey frames, with the 1200 S Touring boasting colour-matched side luggage. The 2013 Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak comes proudly dressed in the new race colours of Ducati Corse red with white stripe and red frame, while the Granturismo is finished in a sophisticated touring grey with racing grey frame. All models in the Multistrada family roll on black-finished wheels.

2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring Features and Benefits

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS)

The ‘S’ versions of the Multistrada 1200 are now equipped with electronic 48mm Sachs front forks and rear single shock, both featuring the new Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) system. The new technology features a semi-active suspension management that constantly re-adjusts damping to maintain optimum vehicle composure – as if the motorcycle was suspended from the sky.

The innovative new system removes the compromise of conventional, passive suspension by continuously re-evaluating the dynamic relationship between the wheel following the road surface and the comfort provided by a constantly steady vehicle body. With the intelligent DSS system, many of the negative attributes of a soft or hard set-up are eliminated without compromising performance in the environments for which they were intended.

DSS uses data delivered from a number of sensors situated both on the “sprung” and “unsprung” sides of the chassis to calculate and provide the smoothest possible operation. Vertical accelerometers situated on the front lower triple-clamp and in the rear sub-frame deliver “sprung” data, while additional sensors on the front fork leg lower and rear swingarm – close to the wheel hubs – deliver “unsprung” data. DSS then uses an algorithm in its programming which considers an imaginary fixed reference point above the vehicle: “a hook in the sky”. The system then responds to the inputs of both the vehicle and wheel movements with instantaneous damping adjustments to help maintain a constant relationship between the Multistrada and the reference point, providing optimum vehicle equilibrium and a smoother ride.

To smooth-out the longitudinal forces created by braking and acceleration/de-acceleration, the system employs the Ducati Traction Control (DTC) longitudinal accelerometer sensor and the new ABS pressure sensors to instantly calculate and execute a response that will reduce the positive and negative pitching effect subjected to the vehicle.

DSS works by instantly calculating all relevant data and responding with immediate adjustment of the compression or rebound damping appropriate to the current Riding Mode. The resulting increase or decrease in damping significantly reduces the magnitude of force generated when riding over uneven terrain or when braking, accelerating or de-accelerating, enhancing motorcycle stability and considerably increasing comfort for both rider and passenger.

Normal suspension adjustments to rebound and compression damping and rear spring pre-load are automatically integrated with the Multistrada’s Riding Modes as before, and can be further personalised by entering a user-friendly control panel in the instrumentation. In addition to the Riding Mode of Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro, there is also an option to quickly change the suspension setting to suit ‘rider only’, ‘rider with luggage’, ‘rider and passenger’ or ‘rider and passenger with luggage’. DSS recognises any personalised settings as its new “zero point” and reconfigures itself ready to interact.

Bosch Brembo Braking system with the latest ABS

Now an integral part of the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP), the 2013 Multistrada 1200 is equipped with the very latest Bosch ABS 9ME controlled Brembo braking system, an unbeatable combination of state-of-the-art security and track-proven power. Shorter stopping distances with enhanced stability are vital prerequisites, whether for Sport or Touring, but add full Riding Mode interaction to the set-up, and the latest system enables zero-compromise performance for Urban and Enduro also.

Using the same processor that controls the ABS of the 1199 Panigale Superbike, the new Multistrada now provides an optimised front-to-rear combined braking system in Urban and Touring Riding Modes, instantly adjusted when operated in Sport and Enduro Riding Modes, riding environments in which a less automated control is normally preferred. The stability-enhancing front-to-rear combined braking feature uses four pressure sensors – one in the front and rear master-cylinder and one in the front and rear calliper circuit – to precisely understand the vehicle’s braking performance and provide an additional and optimised braking pressure on the rear when the front brake is applied.

Underlining its similarity to the 1199 Panigale, the ABS system also enhances control by maintaining optimum ground contact for the rear tyre during severe braking with a rear-end anti-lift feature in addition to providing ABS function on the front brakes only in certain conditions.

The system integrates perfectly with Ducati’s four-bikes-in-one Riding Mode concept by dividing its features into a three-level operating system. Level two provides an appropriate combined front/rear balance and no lift-up detection for Sport riding, while level three delivers optimised combined braking with lift-up detection to provide the maximum security management for Touring and Urban use. Level one provides maximum performance for off-road use, removing lift-up detection and enabling the rider to drift the rearend under braking with a pre-set number of seconds of front only ABS.

The front brakes use twin radially-mounted Brembo four piston, two pad callipers actuated by a master cylinder with an adjustable lever. The fronts grip 320mm discs, while a single 245mm disc on the rear is gripped by a single Brembo calliper. Typical of all Ducatis, these components ensure high performance braking and set the standard in this segment.

All 2013 Multistrada models are fitted with the Bosch-Brembo ABS system as standard equipment, delivering outstanding braking performances in all conditions and providing a major contribution towards performance safety. An option to disable the ABS in each individual Riding Mode is available via the instrumentation, and the new system allows the setting to be saved and memorised at the next ignition-on.

Introducing Testastretta 11° DS – The second generation

For 2013, the arrival of the second generation Testastretta 11° DS engine introduces a number of important and highly effective enhancements, increasing torque to 12.7kgm (91.8lb-ft) and overall mid-range power delivery with even smoother operation. The improvements perfectly complement the new Multistrada 1200 by using a combination of new technologies proven on the 1199 Panigale’s Superquadro engine, and established technologies reintroduced to further enhance the overall package.

The Testastretta 11° DS’s fuel injectors have now been repositioned to target spray directly onto the rear of the hot intake valve instead of the relatively cold surface of the intake port wall. The enhanced vaporisation achieved as the fuel hits the valve, fully atomises the incoming charge, eliminating the chance of compromised combustion efficiency experienced if droplets of fuel enter in liquid form.

Having achieved the delivery of a fully vaporised inlet charge, Ducati engineers decided to reintroduce the concept of Dual Spark (DS) to the Testastretta 11°, with two spark plugs per cylinder-head providing a twin flame-front that ensures complete and efficient combustion across a shorter period of time.

In order to achieve a smoother cycle-to-cycle engine operation, there is a necessity to increase the fuel injected during specific engine operations and to achieve this without affecting emissions, a secondary air system has been introduced similar to that designed for the high-performance 1199 Panigale engine. This optimisation of fuel-mapping without compromising emissions is achieved by completing the oxidisation of unburned hydrocarbons, which reduces HC and CO levels. The system is activated when the engine ECU recognises specific conditions in the engine’s operation via the lambda and throttle opening sensors. It then opens a valve enabling a flow of clean air from the main airbox to a reed valve situated in each cylinder head, which enables one-way flow into an air gallery exiting into the exhaust port close to the exhaust valve. Entering the hottest point of the exhaust gasses, the fresh charge of air enhances the burn environment, eliminating any unburned fuel that escapes during the exhaust cycle under certain conditions.

First introduced for the Multistrada 1200 in 2010, the Testastretta 11° engine effectively took the firebreathing 1198 Superbike power plant and re-engineered it with increased user-friendliness. Engineers achieved this to great effect by reducing the amount of valve over-lap from around 41° – typical in performance engines that operate constantly at high RPM – to just 11°, which reduced peak horse-power slightly, but enhanced mid-range and overall smoothness – classic prerequisites for touring.

The overlap angle is defined as the interval of crankshaft rotation, measured in degrees, during which both the intake and exhaust valves are open at the same time. This overlap occurs between the end of the exhaust stroke and the start of the intake stroke. On the Testastretta 11° engine, this angle has been reduced and the fresh inlet charge flow less compromised by the exiting exhaust gases, resulting in a much smoother combustion, improved fuel economy and lower exhaust emissions. Unburnt hydrocarbon emissions (pre-catalyser) and specific fuel consumption (and consequent CO2 emissions) are considerably reduced.

With its 150hp and 0.7kgm (4.3lb-ft) increase of torque to 12.7kgm (91.8lb-ft), the Testastretta 11° DS sets a new standard for Ducati twin-cylinder engines. Constant attention to every last detail has enabled Ducati to achieve an even more favourable torque curve at low rpm, which remains strong through a wider range.

This characteristic now enhances the Multistrada 1200’s effortless ridability even further. The Multistrada 1200 engine features an oil bath clutch with ‘slipper’ function and super-light feel at the lever. Its design uses a progressive self-servo mechanism that presses the plates together when under drive from the engine, enabling the reduction of the clutch spring rates. This results in a much lighter clutch lever at the handlebar, ideal in stop-start traffic or long journeys. When the drive force is reversed (over-run), the same mechanism reduces the pressure on the clutch plates, enabling them to provide a race-like ‘slipper’ action, which reduces the destabilizing effect of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting and provides a much smoother feeling when closing the throttle or down-shifting under normal riding conditions.

The layout for the exhaust system, which is simple and minimalistic, uses two primary manifolds flowing directly into the triple chamber single silencer. In addition to carrying out the 2-1-2 compensator function, the silencer contains the catalyser and sound-absorbent materials. The two compact and lightweight aluminium alloy end pipes depart in a low, lateral configuration to keep the overall weight to a minimum. The long road to major services

Constant investment in quality by design, advanced materials and engineering techniques, has enabled the distance between major service intervals (valve clearance check) to be set at an owner-friendly 24,000km (15,000 miles). This has been achieved partly by the introduction of a new valve seat material and partly by the improved combustion efficiency and temperature management designed into the Testastretta 11° DS engine.

Four-bikes-in-one

Ducati’s four-bikes-in-one concept is achieved by selecting from a choice of four pre-set modes programmed to instantly change the engine character and chassis set-up of the Multistrada 1200 – even while riding. The four modes are made possible by combining a number of class-leading technologies.

An electronic Ride-by-Wire (RbW) system administers different mappings to regulate power delivery by interpreting the rider’s throttle input, while the world-beating Ducati Traction Control system (DTC) uses eight levels of system interaction to enhance control by reducing wheel-spin. For 2013, ABS is also programmed to offer the optimum setting appropriate to the Riding Mode selected and, for the ‘S’ versions, Sachs electronic suspension front and rear not only configures the suspension set-up with Riding Modeappropriate electronic adjustment, but Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) now also instantly reacts to additional inputs to maintain overall vehicle composure for a smoother ride.

Sport Riding Mode The Sport Riding Mode provides the rider with an adrenalin-fuelled 150hp ride with a sport-oriented throttle response and, on the ‘S’ versions, an instant high performance suspension set-up with DSS reconfigured to provide appropriate active management in this mode. In character with its Superbike heritage, the sport mode also changes the DTC system intervention to level four for expert riders and ABS to level two for a performance-oriented interaction with combined front/rear function slightly reduced and “lift-up” detection deactivated for those whose ‘comfort zone’ is a little closer to the limit.

Touring Riding Mode The Touring Riding Mode is also programmed to produce 150hp, however, the power characteristics are designed in a touring configuration with a smoother, more user-friendly delivery. Active safety is enhanced by increasing DTC system intervention to level five, specifically intended for an enjoyable and relaxing ride and ABS to a touring-oriented level three interaction for maximum confidence with “lift-up” detection active and combined braking optimised. On the ‘S’ versions, the suspension automatically dials-in a set-up ideal for long distance touring, ensuring maximum comfort for both the rider and passenger and DSS again reconfigured to provide appropriate active management, even considering the amount of load onboard preprogrammed into the system by the rider.

Urban Riding Mode As an urban environment often requires an even more user-friendly motorcycle, the Urban Riding Mode instantly transforms the Multistrada 1200 into the most manageable, everyday transport. Power output is reduced to 100hp, and the suspension, on the ‘S’ versions, to a setting perfect for tackling the maze of city streets full of speed bumps and drain covers. Once again, DSS is also reconfigured to provide appropriate active management in this demanding environment. DTC is further enhanced to level six to provide high system intervention during the most chaotic of stop-start traffic and ABS to a city-oriented level three interaction for maximum confidence with “lift-up” detection active and combined braking optimised.

Enduro Riding Mode If adventure invites the Multistrada 1200 off the beaten track, it has the capability to take off-road routes in its stride. Agile and lightweight and with high, wide handlebars, serrated footrests and specially designed tyres, the Multistrada also features an Enduro Riding Mode which instantly produces a smooth 100hp engine, immediately dials-in an appropriate suspension setting on the ‘S’ versions and reconfigures DSS to provide appropriate active management. The DTC system is reduced to level two for minimal intervention and ABS to an off-road-oriented level one interaction for a low-grip terrain appropriate setting with “lift-up” detection deactivated and rear wheel ABS partially interrupted for controlled rear end drifting.

Ride-by-Wire

The Ride-by-Wire (RbW) system is an electronic interface between the twistgrip and the engine which decides the ideal power response depending on the Riding Mode selected and according to the rider’s throttle input. The twistgrip no longer uses a throttle cable to control the throttle body butterflies, but instead delivers a signal to a control unit, which in turn operates the butterfly opening.

The RbW system enables the use of three different mappings to regulate the power delivery. The three maps offer 150hp with a sports-type delivery, 150hp with a progressive delivery suitable for touring and 100hp with progressive delivery for city or off-road use.

Ducati Traction Control The racing-derived Ducati Traction Control (DTC) is a highly intelligent system which acts as a filter between the rider’s right hand and the rear tyre. Within milliseconds, DTC is able to detect and then control rear wheel-spin, considerably increasing the bike’s active safety and performance and is an important component of the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP).

The system offers eight ‘levels of sensitivity’, each programmed with a level of rear wheel-spin tolerance in line with progressive levels of riding skills classified from one to eight. Level one is programmed to offer the least amount of interaction while level eight uses the most amount of interaction. DTC is an integral part of the pre-programmed Riding Modes on the Multistrada 1200.

DTC levels are factory pre-set in each of the four Riding Modes, but can be individually customised and saved to suit the rider by accessing the set-up menu within each mode. A ‘Default’ option is available to easily return all settings to factory pre-sets.

Instrumentation and lighting

The instrumentation has a large, high visibility LCD showing all main data and a dot-matrix circular LCD which displays the Riding Modes, additional data or set-up menus depending on whether the bike is stationary or moving.

The main LCD displays data for speed, rpm, gear, total mileage, trip1/trip2, engine coolant temperature, fuel level and time. When the motorcycle is in motion, the dot-matrix LCD displays the selected Riding Mode, remaining fuel/distance, current fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, average speed, air temperature, trip time, and ‘freezing conditions’ alarm. When stationary, buttons on the left-hand switchgear can be used to enter a setting menu from where adjustments to the various functions can be made including personalised DTC and, new for 2013, also a three-level ABS set-up. On the ‘S’ versions, suspension settings can be set with a user-friendly five-point graphic that provides two settings “harder” and two settings “softer” than a central “medium” position for both front and rear compression and rebound damping, while digital rear spring pre-load now increases from a 1-16 range to a 1-24.

The Sport, Touring, Urban or Enduro Riding Modes can be changed while either stationary or in motion, as well as load settings for ‘rider only’, ‘rider with luggage’, ‘rider and passenger’ or ‘rider and passenger with luggage’.

For 2013, the Multistrada family introduces a new headlight with LED low-beam illumination added to the original LED position lights. While the main-beam remains conventional, it now functions in addition to the LED low-beam to enhance overall lighting efficiency. The Granturismo goes one step further with two LED spot lights enhancing peripheral illumination controlled from a handlebar-mounted switch. A hazard light function is also added to the new Multistrada models, activated by holding the left-turn signal button on for four seconds.

Hands-free ignition

The Multistrada 1200 ignition is not actuated with a normal key. Instead, an electronic key in the rider’s pocket communicates with the Multistrada when within a distance of approximately 2 metres (6.5ft), recognising the dedicated key code and automatically enabling the motorcycle’s systems. Pressing the keyon switch then activates all systems to ‘on’ and the engine is ready to be started.

The electronic key, which internally consists of a radio circuit, externally doubles as a mechanical flip-key, required to open the seat and fuel tank cap. When parking the motorcycle an electronic locking device can be actuated on the steering simply by applying full steering-lock and pressing the ignition-off button a second time.

INNOVATIVE DESIGN – Multistrada continues to set the benchmark

A lighter motorcycle enables maximum performance both in terms of dynamic behaviour and safety by braking in a shorter distance, accelerating faster and being easier to steer. Every single component of the Multistrada 1200, therefore, has been designed to achieve weight reduction without compromising its loadbearing capacity. With a dry weight of just 194kg (428lb Multistrada 1200 S Pikes Peak) the Multistrada 1200 is lighter than any other road enduro, touring or sport touring bike currently available in this category. The lightweight and excellent chassis set-up ensures exceptional handling, a key factor for Sport, Touring, Urban or Enduro riding.

Ergonomic design and engineered comfort

The original Multistrada 1200 project was subjected to an extensive ergonomic study using both CAD and repeated prototype testing, guaranteeing a high level of comfort with a fully loaded motorcycle for longrange touring. The ‘ergonomics triangle’ of handlebar, seat and footpegs has been designed for both the rider and passenger, optimising comfort while providing a commanding and upright riding position.

The machine feels spacious and accommodates both rider and passenger in complete comfort, even with a top case and side luggage in place. Its 1530mm (60.2in) wheelbase ensures that not only the weight of the passenger remains inside the wheelbase length, but also that of the side luggage when loaded, a considerable contribution to the motorcycle’s dynamic performance. Underlining its multi-tasking intention, ergonomic attention was even applied when designing the riding position while standing on the footpegs, off-road style.

The wide, tapered steel handlebars have been designed for maximum comfort and ensure a commanding riding position enhanced by a generous steering lock of 76° (38° left and right). In addition, the handlebars have been mounted on anti-vibration isolators, specially designed to balance riding comfort with a precise road ‘feel’.

The Multistrada 1200 seat immediately transmits a sense of comfort with generous dimensions front and rear. Constructed in two separate sections for the rider and passenger, the design focussed on form and cushion density to ensure maximum comfort during long journeys and user-friendly lateral shaping to help give sure-footed ground contact when stationary. A confidence-inspiring passenger grab-handle offers a secure and comfortable grip.

The footpeg position represents part of the optimum ‘ergonomics triangle’ for both the rider and passenger with added consideration to ground clearance during maximum lean angle and position of side luggage. The footpegs have rubber inserts that insulate vibration, removable to expose a motocross-style serrated edge that provides enhanced boot grip when riding off-road.

Two handy onboard stowage areas are built into the motorcycle, one suitable for a mobile phone or toll road tickets situated in the right cockpit panel and made larger for 2013 with a glove-friendly “push-push” lid latch, and an additional three litre area situated under the passenger seat.

Enhanced detail for long journeys

For 2013, the Multistrada 1200’s screen is higher and wider, providing increased protection and rider comfort during long distance travel and its 60mm of vertical adjustment can now be adjusted using just one hand because of the useful new centrally-mounted, pinch-and-slide mechanism. Two 12v power outlets situated on either side of the area below the rider’s seat can be used to power up to 8A (fused) accessories such as thermal apparel, intercoms or mobile phone chargers. In addition, a special connection point for powering a GARMIN satellite navigator (optional feature) is situated near the instrumentation.

The Multistrada 1200 S Touring and 1200 S Granturismo add even more comfort and convenience with easily controlled heated grips ideal for journeys where adverse weather conditions threaten rider comfort, and generously proportioned, stylish luggage offering a load capacity of 58 litres (73 litre for the Granturismo) with a fast and secure attachment system that is perfectly hidden when the luggage is removed. In addition, a centre stand provides parking confidence when fully loaded and essential security in the event of tyre maintenance during long journeys.

Character

For Ducati, design is not just creating an attractive look. It is about knowing how best to combine exciting appearance with intelligent function and outstanding performance. Even the Multistrada 1200’s exhaust tail pipes are a feature that perfectly demonstrates this concept.

Their innovative design is well integrated with the motorcycle’s overall shape and the positioning of the exhaust system improves overall weight distribution. The tailpipes are short so they do not impinge on the space needed for the side luggage. The internal structure of the silencer is designed to achieve the characteristic Ducati sound without compromising compliance with sound and hydrocarbon emission standards (Euro3).

Components that are far more than just aesthetic detail, include the frontal air intakes that characterise the face of the Multistrada and also deliver air to the oil cooler and airbox, and the beautifully formed aluminium sump guard and side plates that help to protect the engine off-road.

The single-sided rear swingarm is also a good example of Ducati’s blend of design and functional engineering. It is made using a single piece casting, with fabricated and welded sections creating a strong, hollow and lightweight component that contributes considerably to the Multistrada’s sure-footed handling.

The new headlight is a characteristic feature of the face of the Multistrada 1200, its symmetrical layout now updated with LED low beam.

MULTISTRADA CHASSIS

Design All components used in the construction of the Multistrada 1200 are of the highest quality. Their selection and subsequent assembly is the result of a design brief based on uncompromised performance.

Chassis geometry, such as wheelbase, swingarm length, and rake, trail and offset is the result of a quest for the best balance of stability at high speeds and dynamic agility. The chassis is designed to achieve lean angles of up to 45° and the combination of reduced weight and generous steering lock of 76° (38° left and right) makes tight manoeuvres at low speeds easy to manage.

Suspension The standard version Multistrada 1200 uses 50mm Marzocchi front forks, featuring a special forged fork bottom and full adjustability in spring pre-load and compression and rebound damping. The rear is controlled by a Sachs monoshock adjustable in compression and rebound damping and in spring pre-load by using the handy remote manual adjuster.

The ‘S’ versions of the Multistrada 1200 are equipped with electronic 48mm Sachs forks and rear single shock, both featuring the new Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS). This innovative development not only enables rebound and compression damping adjustments and rear spring pre-load, automatically adjustable with the Riding Modes or individually adjusted via the instrument panel, but also features a semi-active management that constantly re-adjusts damping to maintain optimum vehicle equilibrium – as if the motorcycle was suspended from the sky.

The front and rear suspension of both versions provide 170mm (6.7in) of travel, the extra-long movement ensuring excellent comfort even when fully loaded or if the rider decides to leave the asphalt for off-road routes and all models are now equipped with a progressive-rate rear spring, which increases that comfort across a wider range of load conditions. This comfort is also further enhanced with DSS on the ‘S’ versions and an option to easily change the suspension setting to suit ‘rider only’, ‘rider with luggage’, ‘rider and passenger’ or ‘rider and passenger with luggage’ with just a few clicks of a button, providing a fast and convenient way to optimise the Multistrada’s journey performance.

Ducati’s technical partner, Pirelli, worked alongside the Multistrada’s engineers throughout the original Multistrada 1200 project, developing the Pirelli Scorpion Trail tyres specifically for the four-bikes-in-one concept. The tyres used on the 1200, 1200 S Touring and 1200 S Pikes Peak represent the first ever dual compound for on/off road use with a harder compound central section. Combined with a special tread design and carcass structure, their 190/55 section delivers racing performance on the road in terms of grip and lean angles, while ensuring high mileage for touring and good off-road performance. For 2013, the Scorpion Trail incorporates Pirelli’s latest compound technology, ensuring optimum performance in all conditions, with enhanced longevity.

Appropriate to its grand touring intention, the Multistrada 1200 S Granturismo is mounted on the new Pirelli Angel GT tyres, specifically designed for maintaining optimum performance throughout long distance journeys. Under the title “performance mileage”, Pirelli deeply studied compound and tread pattern data to develop a tyre with a combination of excellent wet weather character and all-round performance, perfectly suited to modern sport-touring, even with full luggage capacity.

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